Have you ever felt the runner's high?
It's a beautiful light rush of joy and bliss that comes on after a run, sometimes even a short run - sometimes during a run.
Running, you see, triggers the release of endorphins and other happy hormones to circulate through the body.
A feeling of elation and euphoria follows, engulfing the entire body and taking the mind along for the ride.
It's a good antidote to stress.
Which brings us to the Fernleigh 15. Vaccines are on the way, but until then many events - fun runs included - remain on hold. The Fernleigh 15, though, can still be run - just not with a big bunch of people.
Participants have until November 30 to complete the 15-kilometre course.
Runners within 100 kilometres of Newcastle can upload their time to receive a finisher's medal and go into a draw to win one of six $100 Greater Bank accounts.
As an event sponsor, Greater Bank has given $5000 to Lifeline Hunter and is encouraging participants to raise funds for the charity that will directly support services in the Hunter.
Lifeline's regional manager Julie Wicks said exercise helps people cope and improves mental health, so "this event has a wonderful synergy".
"And in this region, there is no better backdrop to get out for a walk or run than the Fernleigh Track," Julie said.
Combine the runner's high with a bit of nature and you've got a sweet recipe for keeping the old noggin in decent shape.
More details at greater.com.au/fernleigh15.
Maitland or Thailand?
Neil Coutts sent a card to Maitland Hospital from Maitland Post Office in March, which is a two-kilometre journey.
"It went via Thailand on a round trip of 15,260 kilometres and arrived back at Maitland Hospital in November," Neil said.
"At least some things are having a Thai holiday, even if I can't."
Don't Bank On It
Ian Jenkins spotted a sign in the window at a former Commonwealth Bank branch.
"The Junction branch is now permanently closed," the sign said.
The sign also mentioned an "alternative banking option in Korumburra".
Korumburra is about 120 kilometres south-east of Melbourne.
There are closer alternatives ... we hope.
Non-Viral Joke
What do you call a free treadmill? Outside.
What race is never run? A swimming race.
Sign spotted in a podiatrist's office: "Time wounds all heels".
This from Elaine Richards, of Salt Ash:
An elderly couple won a lot of money in the lottery. The wife was worried.
"What about all the begging letters?" she asked her husband.
"Keep sending them," he replied.
- topics@newcastleherald.com.au
